We like to do things last minute around here because therein lies fun and madness that collide into worlds of joy and magic. It is seven days to Christmas and now is the time to whip out the trusty check list of what needs doing and what needs delegating in the run down.
One
Create your list
I’ve a rule, if I have not spoken to you in six month you are not invited to Christmas dinner. It’s simply that simple and hopefully by now you have slashed your guestlist down to the absolutely necessary people in you life, there is no need to please everyone or pack if like the Chelsea bus. Only people who you give a shit about are allowed. All others can wait to receive their generic christmas cards.
Two
Plan the menu
I’ve According to the guest list, plan the menu, seven days out is the perfect time to shop for everything you need. And keep it simple; stick to the three options; bird, beef, veggies and for the love of all things holy, do not try a new menu the day before!
Three
Curate the drinks list
What are you serving? What are you mixing? Red, white, champagne. Three cocktails. Job done because you do not need the hassle. Maybe throw in some spirit because you always need a kip post meal and you should be good to go.
Four
Clean your skirting boards and chandeliers.
This will never not be on the list; these are some of the places that go forgotten so make the time to clean the skirting boards and chandeliers. Dust like a demon and make the surfaces sparkle. Use a broom and finish with a hoover.
Five
Be Impulsive
Take a day trip to Venice, not Paris. I mean we can do Paris but a flight to Venice. Head to the Peggy Guggenheim Museum. Stop for a meal at Harry’s Bar. Go Home.
Six
Play hostess
every so often, spare a thought for your parent friends who are really going through it over the holidays and host them for a night.
Seven
Season your chicken
we are not eating unseasoned chicken in the year of our Lord 2023. SEASON YOUR CHICKEN. BEEF. TURKEY. FISH…
Eight
Sort your linens
If you are having people stay over for Christmas and New Year, sort the linens out. Deep clean the towels and bed sheets, buy some extras.
Nine
Make plans for Christmas Eve
the mad dash is always fun, the ever loving freak out is always welcome, make plans for Christmas Eve a special dinner and a delightful evening. I love Christmas Eve it is the most magical of all nights so gather loved ones around and make a meal of it.
Ten
Movie watching day
You’ve earned the right to kick up your feet and watch another movie. Angel Falls- I prefer the first one; sorry Chad. Might I also suggest watching the Christmas Special of Downton Abbey; it is pure perfection.